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Entwined – what it's like to play

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A beautiful tale of two creatures in love, poured into a rhythm-action game.

Always together...

For those that want to take on the challenge of a rhythm game reminiscent of PlayStation classics Flower and Chime, there's plenty for you - nine separate levels that step up in intensity as you progress, culminating in a stage that will put your reflexes and dexterity to the test.

If you have more of a poet's soul, Entwined's tragic story of the fish and the bird - eternally in love but continually driven apart from each other - is strangely touching, and lends this simple game an effortless beauty that you'll struggle to find elsewhere.

Dexterity is the key

Using the DUALSHOCK 4 wireless controller, you can control the fish and the bird with ease. The fish is assigned to the left stick, and the bird to the right stick - each possessing the ability to move in a half circle, but never crossing paths.

As you proceed through each stage - referred to as lifetimes - control both animals so that they can pass through their respective coloured portals and grab orbs. Successive portals and orb pick-ups fill the meters at the top of the screen until you've gained enough energy to euphorically combine the two animals and finish the level.

TOP TIP: Roll both the left and right sticks on the outside edge to give the best control - you'll find this technique essential as you progress to the later levels.

Forever apart...

Upon first getting into Entwined, be prepared to marvel at the beautiful simplicity with which the game is put together. The striking contrast of the orange fish and teal bird create a dazzling dance of light against the backdrops of the vibrant levels you work through.

A musical theme runs throughout each lifetime. Pass through orange and blue portals successfully to add to the music track with complementary chimes and flourishes. If you miss a portal then a harsh horn will sound and your energy meter will deplete slightly - but if you string together several portals in succession and collect orbs faultlessly then the fish and bird will briefly combine to form an ethereal green dragon - at which point the level opens up beyond the lengthy tunnels and you are free to explore, collecting coloured gems as you fly.

With nine lifetimes to play through in story mode, plus five different levels to conquer in challenge mode, there's a lot to love in this bite-size downloadable package.

If you haven't picked up Entwined yet, you can get it right now from PlayStation Store.